Ancient Age is a Buffalo Trace-produced product distilled in Frankfort, KY. The label itself has been in production since 1946, and clocks in at 80 proof. It is made using Buffalo Trace’s Mash Bill #2, the higher rye recipe, which it shares with Blanton’s Rock Hill Farms, Hancock’s Reserve, and Elmer T. Lee, all top-shelf bourbons in their own regard. So that makes this the most affordable label of the mash bill by a considerable margin. Is it the same bourbon? Nope. But for under $13 for 750mL, it doesn’t need to be.
Nose: Lots of corn, some light vanilla, rye, and pepper.
Taste: Again, the corn and vanilla are the main players here, but there is a slight rye spice at the end. It’s somewhat thin, without a great depth of flavor, but definitely fits the Buffalo Trace profile.
Finish: Very dry, very short. The only lingering flavor is the mild rye citrus and black pepper as it quickly fades.
